Satsangs

Satsang is a compound Sanskrit word that means “keeping the company of the Self.” The Self, Awareness, is the true nature of everyone and one keeps company with it by continually meditating on it in many ways. One of the most effective methods involves discussing non-dual teachings with someone who has realized his or her identity as the Self, to get clarity with reference to Self inquiry. The satsangs posted here are the questions of many people around the world who are interested in enlightenment and find that Vedanta is their preferred means of Self knowledge. Since I am a teacher of Vedanta, a time tested means of self inquiry, I am qualified to reply to these questions.~James Swartz

ShiningWorld Reader

Ian: Hi, James. I don’t wish to trouble you. I’m not looking for advice, I just wanted to say that things have been going really well lately.

I was having trouble with some pesky desire vasanas, and was reading Aparokshanabhuti and at the end Shankara recommended that hatha yoga can help, so started doing it again regularly and it has really made a difference, especially in conjunction with karma yoga and trying to follow my own dharma more. Of course persistent inquiry and all the rest are awesome too.

My partner and I are really looking forward to coming to the Tiruvannamalai talks next year. First time to India for me, so it will be jolly.

Don’t really need help, because you have already told me what to do via books and emails, talks, etc. I just have to keep tweaking everything and it just seems to get better.

Thanks for the help you have given, my quest finally feels like it will be over before long. I am sattvic most of the time. And inquiry has become much easier. Who would have thought that all I was missing was improving my qualifications? LOL.

~Love, Ian

James: Hi, Ian. I am so happy that Vedanta is working for you. Keep it up. If you know the value of Vedanta, which it seems you do, your journey is nearly over. See you in India.

~ Love, James

Contacting Shining World

For years I have happily and diligently responded to communications on the topic of Self realization. Since the publication of my book, “How to Attain Enlightenment”— currently in its third printing —and the success of this website, the volume of emails has increased considerably. Unfortunately, owing to a busy schedule of teaching and writing, I am no longer able to answer all the emails I receive in a timely fashion. However, my wife, who is also a teacher, and several well-qualified teachers we have endorsed are available to answer emails on my behalf. I encourage you to send them your questions.
— James SwartzContact Us